Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Outemu Red Panda, both tactile switches offering unique characteristics. The Purple Sakura is praised for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, with a tactile feedback that is pronounced yet not overwhelming, resulting in a mild and neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a light to medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Purple Sakura leans towards a smoother typing experience, while the Red Panda delivers a more distinct and varied sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as the light can shine through creating a visually appealing effect. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits when using them.
On the other hand, the Purple Sakura incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. Similarly, the Red Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's sound-absorbing properties. This indicates that both switches will deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing.
When it comes to comparing the two switches, the differences lie in the bottom housing material. The top housing remains consistent with polycarbonate in both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Outemu Red Panda, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in the Purple Sakura results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while still maintaining the overall clarity and resonance provided by the polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, users can expect a similar sound experience in terms of the top housing between the two switches, with the key distinctions coming from the material used in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it's clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equally medium-weight switches. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the required force for both switches. The medium weight of these switches strikes a balance between lightness for prolonged typing sessions and heaviness for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch will depend on their personal typing preferences and needs. In this case, both the Purple Sakura and Red Panda switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper press, the Red Panda may offer a tad more satisfaction. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming sessions.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
The Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch produces a thocky sound that is deep and satisfying, providing a different auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, it provides a mild and snappy tactile feedback, making typing on it feel more responsive. Similarly, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users due to its safe middle-ground characteristics.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Outemu Red Panda switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Purple Sakura provides a neutral sound profile with a buttery and snappy feel, the Red Panda switch offers a thocky sound and mild tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is looking for. However, both switches are likely to deliver satisfying results in their own right.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a snappy response, buttery downstroke, and neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility, a bassier bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound, the Red Panda could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align more closely with your typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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